Graphene nanoplatelets loaded polyurethane and phenolic resin fibres by combination of pressure and gyration

A simple and effective process combining pressure and gyration has been developed and used to jet-out composite fibres containing graphene nanoplatelets. Thermoplastic polyurethane and phenolic resin polymers were used as matrices. Processing parameters such as rotation speed, pressure and polymer concentration had a marked influence on the composite fibre diameter. Focussed ion beam milling and etching verified the effective incorporation of the graphene nanoplatelets into the composite fibres. Morphological, rheological, physico-chemical and thermal properties of the composite fibres were evaluated to identify possible applications for them.